Motivation to Exercise

Motivation is what gets you started. Habit it what keeps you going.
                                             Quote from Jim Ryun

Great, but where do you get the motivation to exercise?

1. Start with a FUN exercise. You are much more likely to begin an exercise routine if you perceive it as being enjoyable. As you begin to feel the benefits of your efforts, gradually incorporate other exercises into your workout.
   
   
2. Begin any new exercise routine slowly so you don't risk injury. Start off with some motivational exercise, warm up and stretching to get yourself primed.
   
   
3. Wear supportive footwear and comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely. For extra motivation, why not buy a new workout outfit!
   
   
4. Do something interesting as you exercise. Listen to music, watch television, or read. If you workout at a gym most treadmills, stationary bikes and elliptical trainers have a place to set your book.
   
   
5. Set goals, both long term and short term. Be realistic, otherwise you'll risk frustration.
   
   
6. If possible, set an exercise schedule and stick with it! This is the easiest way to make your routine become habit and believe it or not, you'll need less motivation to exercise.
   
   
7. Find a workout buddy, someone else who is looking for physical fitness motivation. It's much harder to skip a workout if you'll be letting someone else down by doing so.
   
   
8. Join a health club where you are surrounded by other people who are motivated, like yourself. If nothing else, the fact that you had to pay to join may get you there regularly.
   
   
9. Don't be too hard on yourself. So you skipped a few days of exercise, or a week, that's fine. Just pick up where you left off. Physical fitness if not an all or nothing deal. Every bit counts and is beneficial. However, keep in mind that the most benefit will come by continually increasing your exertion level.
   
   
10. Make other healthy changes to your lifestyle. With each change you'll feel increasingly motivated to do more.

Are you looking for an easy way to get started at home? Try some of these:

• Stomach exercise
• Back stretching exercise
• Pilates workout
• Yoga poses
• Walking for exercise
• Hip exercises